Operations Research Analyst Job Description

An Operations Research Analyst applies mathematics and quantitative reasoning to solve problems and provide solutions for the complex issues that organizations face. They use modeling, mathematical theory and algorithms in business areas such as inventory, logistics, planning, scheduling and forecasting. Organizations employ Operations Research Analysts to improve their business practices and to help them make better decisions. An Operations Research Analyst may be a member of a company’s staff or may work through consulting firms. They generally work as part of a team.

Operations Research Analysts are in demand across many sectors, in all areas of business and government, particularly by the Department of Defense. More and more organizations are seeking cost-savings and efficiency in how they do business and are turning to Operations Research Analysts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the employment of Operations Research Analysts to increase 30 percent by 2024.

Operations Research Analyst Duties and Responsibilities

To accomplish their primary goal of using mathematic and analytic methods to help organizations make better decisions, Operation Research Analysts perform a variety of tasks. We analyzed several job listings to identify these core Operations Research Analyst duties and responsibilities.

Collect Data and Conduct Assessments

Operations Research Analysts collect information from a wide variety of sources. They develop and implement surveys and conduct assessments. This information is categorized and entered into databases, which Operation Research Analysts build and maintain.

Analyze Data and Identify Solutions

Operations Research Analysts analyze the data they collect to evaluate for cost, effectiveness, risk, or identify issues. Analysis can be done through statistics, modeling and simulations or other methods.

Develop Software and Models

To assist in their analysis or to present solutions and courses of action, the Operations Research Analyst develops software, mathematical models, models and simulations, analytical programs and other tools.

Report on Findings

Based on the outputs from their analysis, Operations Research Analysts write reports, memos, information papers, and briefings to present their findings and recommendations to management. They advise leadership on possible courses of action to address the identified problem.

Test and Implement Solutions

Based on the decision of leadership, the Operations Research Analyst often participates in the testing and implementation of new systems, to ensure that the plan is successful, gather information and interpret the results.

Operations Research Analyst Skills

An Operations Research Analyst is inquisitive, enjoys applying mathematical solutions to real-world problems, and finds satisfaction in making processes more smooth and efficient. A careful and detail-oriented worker, they can think both analytically and creatively. Along with these general skills and personality traits, employers are seeking Operations Research Analyst candidates with the following skills.

Core skills: Based on job listings we looked at, employers want Operations Research Analysts with these core skills. If you want to work as an Operations Research Analyst, focus on the following.

Professional knowledge of mathematical programming, data mining, statistical, econometric and other scientific methods and techniques

Advanced skills: While most employers did not require the following skills, multiple job listings included them as preferred. Add these to your Operations Research Analyst toolbox and broaden your career options.

Experience in operations research, mathematics, and/or statistics in an industrial/applied environment, or with the U.S. military

Exposure to SQL packages and interaction with relational database systems

Knowledge of machine learning, Markov process and other stochastic processes

Ability to obtain U.S. Government security clearance

Operations Research Analyst Resources

We searched the Web to find the best industry resources to help you continue exploring a career as an Operations Research Analyst. From thought leaders to industry groups, this list is packed with opportunities to learn, connect and engage.

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